New Spaceports and Airspace for Future Space Launches

You might care about this because the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration want your ideas on the future of space travel. They have released a Request for Information, or RFI, to gather public and industry input. This RFI focuses on two main topics. First, they want to find new locations for spaceports across the United States. Second, they are looking at how to create special air corridors for space launches. This effort is part of President Trump's 2026 National Space Transportation Policy. This policy aims to keep the United States a top country for commercial space transportation. In 2025, the US was responsible for a large number of global space launches. Officials expect this number to grow to 10,000 licensed launches and reentries each year by 2035. Most current US launches happen at a few federal sites like Cape Canaveral. The government believes more sites and better airspace management are necessary to handle this growth. They also seek input on funding new spaceports, possibly using partnerships between public and private groups. The deadline to submit your comments and information is October 26, 2026. This document is particularly interesting because it shows the US government is actively planning for a massive increase in space activity. They expect space launches to go from a few each week to several each day. This is a big shift that requires new thinking about infrastructure and safety. Current federal launch sites are already very busy. The RFI highlights the need to find new spaceport locations that are viable and can support this rapid growth. This includes thinking about geographic features like launching over open water and staying away from crowded areas. It also involves logistical support like roads and utilities. Another important part is the idea of "priority airspace for critical space launch corridors." This is a new concept to help manage the skies. It would be different from the temporary zones currently used to protect aircraft. These new corridors would aim to make space launches more frequent and safer, while also considering the needs of regular aviation. This proactive approach to managing the skies for both rockets and airplanes is quite forward-looking. Many different groups of people would be interested in this legal document. Companies that launch rockets and satellites, known as space operators, are a primary audience. Their input is directly requested on new spaceport sites and airspace design. Anyone in the aviation industry, including airlines, pilots, and air traffic controllers, would also be interested. Changes to airspace for space launches could affect their flight routes and safety rules. Local and state governments, especially those with coastal areas, should also pay attention. A new spaceport could bring jobs and economic development to their region. However, it could also raise environmental or community concerns. Businesses that build infrastructure, such as construction companies or engineering firms, might see opportunities. Investors and groups interested in public-private partnerships for large projects could also find this relevant. Finally, researchers and students in aerospace, urban planning, or transportation policy would find this document valuable for understanding future trends in space transportation.